Retirement benefits - Application

Except as provided in section 71-02-04-02 for retirement options, applications for retirement, surviving spouse, and disability benefits must be filed at the public employees retirement system office at least thirty days before the retirement date or before the commencement of benefits. A member shall file a photocopy of the member's birth certificate, and if a benefit election is an optional benefit under subsection 1 or 2 of section 71-02-04-04, the member must provide a photocopy of the spouse's birth certificate and marriage certificate with the office. A surviving spouse shall file a photocopy of the surviving spouse's birth certificate, deceased spouse's birth certificate and certified copy of the death certificate, and marriage certificate if a benefit election is under subdivision b of subsection 6 of North Dakota Century Code section 54-52-17. If a birth certificate is not available, a member or surviving spouse may submit other documentation based on policy and procedure adopted by the board.